All Surgeries·Orthopedic
OrthopedicNail

Nail avulsion

Effective relief from stubborn fungal nail infections.

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

About This Disease

Learn about the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis.

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Non-Surgical Treatment

Explore conservative treatment options before surgery.

Fungal Nail Infection Treatment

Surgery Type

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What happens in this surgery?

  • Local anesthetic is administered to numb the toe or finger, ensuring a pain-free procedure.
  • The infected nail is carefully lifted from the nail bed using specialized instruments.
  • The diseased portion, or the entire nail, is gently removed to expose the underlying tissue.
  • The nail bed is cleaned and treated, often with an antifungal agent, to prevent recurrence and encourage healthy nail growth.

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Post Surgery Recovery

What to expect after your procedure

Following nail avulsion, the treated area will be bandaged, and patients can typically return home the same day. Mild pain and discomfort are common and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. It is crucial to keep the wound clean and dry, changing dressings as advised by the medical team to prevent infection. New nail growth is a gradual process, often taking 6 to 12 months for a toenail to fully regrow. During this period, it's important to follow any prescribed antifungal treatments and practice good foot hygiene, such as keeping feet clean and dry, wearing clean socks, and avoiding tight footwear. Regular follow-up appointments will monitor healing and ensure optimal results and prevent recurrence of the fungal infection.

Hospital Stay

1–7 days

Varies by procedure

Initial Rest

1–2 weeks

Light activity only

Follow-up Visit

2–4 weeks

Wound check & review

Full Recovery

6–12 weeks

Back to normal activity

Recovery & Wellness Tips

  • Consultation with a podiatrist or dermatologist to confirm diagnosis and suitability for avulsion.
  • Inform your doctor about any medical conditions, especially diabetes or immune system issues, and all current medications.
  • Clean the affected foot/hand thoroughly before the procedure.
  • Arrange for comfortable, open-toed footwear if a toenail is being treated.
  • Avoid applying nail polish or creams to the affected nail prior to the procedure.